NC worker allies trying to stop unemployment bill

Published: Monday, February 4, 2013 at 7:57 a.m.

Last Modified: Monday, February 4, 2013 at 7:57 a.m.

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP) — North Carolina workers and their advocates are trying to slow an unemployment insurance overhaul bill that's on the fast track at the General Assembly, saying the plan would be cruel to the jobless and their families.

The AFL-CIO, N.C. Justice Center and other groups held a news conference hours before the state House was slated Monday evening to debate the package that would cut benefits and raise business taxes.

The $2.6 billion the state owes the federal government would be repaid three years faster. Maximum weekly benefits also would fall by one-third to $350.

The event included a video of union workers who've been laid off recently and said they wouldn't have survived with the lower benefits.

The Legislative Black Caucus scheduled a news conference voicing its opposition later Monday

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